A former Instacart shopper is accused of sexually assaulting a teenage Publix employee in a parking lot in Miami-Dade County. The suspect, identified as Victor Manuel Fernandez, 36, was arrested yesterday following the November incident, as reported by Local 10 News.
The attack reportedly took place at the Publix Super Market on SW 26th St. in the Tamiami area, where after her shift ended, the young employee entered Fernandez's car for a casual conversation, according to NBC Miami. The police statement suggests Fernandez kissed the girl without her consent, then drove to another location within the lot where he proceeded with the assault.
Fernandez faces charges of sexual battery on a minor, and lewd and lascivious molestation and conduct. He is currently held without bond at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. As per Local 10 News, one of the two news organizations covering the case, indicates that the victim's age has been withheld to protect her identity.
In the aftermath of the assault, Instacart expressed its condemnation of the act. "We are appalled by this act of violence, and our hearts are with the survivor during this difficult time," the company stated in a response obtained by Local 10 News. Instacart also confirmed Fernandez had been banned from their platform, pledging full cooperation with law enforcement. Publix has yet to comment on whether Fernandez will be banned from its stores as well, the response was pending as of today.
